City of Clinton Council Recap: Public Concerns, Community Recognition, and Key Votes

At the City of Clinton City Council meeting held Monday, January 5, council members addressed public concerns, recognized community achievements, and took action on several ordinances and appointments.

Public Comment
During public comment, residents raised concerns about ongoing noise issues at 1717 Gary Street. Both C.C. White and Donna Kinsley addressed council, citing persistent loud noise at the location.

Council also heard from Janice Robinson, site coordinator for The Zone in Clinton, who thanked council on behalf of Executive Director Dr. Theresa Shields and the organization’s volunteers for funding support for the 2025 Summer Boot Camp. Robinson shared that the three-day program was held at Piedmont Technical College and served 40 children each day. The camp included out-of-town speakers covering topics such as finances, mental health, leadership, skill building, behavior, health, and safety, with participation from local law enforcement. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks were provided daily, and organizers distributed 125 book bags along with school supplies and personal hygiene items.

Christmas Decoration Award Winners
Council recognized the 2025 Christmas Decoration Award winners. Each recipient will receive a $50 utility bill credit, a certificate, and a commemorative drink mug. Winners by ward included:

• Ward One: Christopher May, 103 Derby Lane

• Ward Two: Shatylen Chandler, 120 Copper Creek

• Ward Three: Coglady Putnam, 710 North Broad Street

• Ward Four: Vanel Robinson, 402 Academy Street

• Ward Five: A tie between Jimmy and Sarah Heaton, 401 Caldwell Street, and Wayne and Julie Steel, 403 Caldwell Street (noted as a parent-and-child household tie)

• Ward Six: Joseph and Candance Brham, 200 West Walnut Street

The business category winner was Hayden Copelan’s Allstate.

Ordinances and Appointments
Council unanimously approved, on second reading, an ordinance amending the city’s zoning regulations to establish an RS2 High Density Single-Family Residential Zoning District. The amendment had previously been reviewed by the planning commission and a public hearing held on November 11, with first reading approval granted on December 1.

Council also unanimously approved, on first reading, an ordinance to temporarily suspend Sunday sales.

Appointments to the Design and Review Board were approved as follows: Steven Lair for Ward One, Michael Stoddard for Ward Two, and Harold Nichols for Ward Four, who agreed to serve an additional term. Ward Six does not currently have a confirmed appointee.

Financial Audit
Council received the results of an independent audit conducted by Love, Bailey Accountants, which reviewed the City of Clinton’s financial statements for the most recent fiscal year. The audit examined accounting practices, internal controls, compliance with applicable laws, and the city’s major funds, revenues, expenditures, and overall financial position. According to the audit, the City of Clinton was found to be in sound financial condition, with appropriate financial management practices and accurate reporting of public funds in place.